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ICD

An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) is a small battery-powered device placed in the chest. It detects and stops irregular heartbeats, also called arrhythmias. An ICD continuously checks the heartbeat. It delivers electric shocks, when needed, to restore a regular heart rhythm.

You might need an ICD if you have a dangerously fast heartbeat called ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation. An ICD also may be recommended if you're at high risk of dangerous irregular heartbeats, usually because of a weak heart muscle.

An ICD isn't the same as a pacemaker. A pacemaker is a device used to prevent dangerously slow heartbeats.

An ICD is a type of cardiac therapy device. There are two basic types:

  • A traditional ICD is placed in the chest. Wires, called leads, attach to the heart.
  • A subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD) is placed under the skin at the side of the chest below the armpit. It's attached to a sensor, called an electrode. The sensor runs along the breastbone. An S-ICD is larger than a traditional ICD. It doesn't touch the heart.